High viscosity drum pump types and applications

High Viscosity Drum Pumps: Powerful Transfer for Thick Liquids

High viscosity drum pumps are engineered to handle thick, sticky fluids that standard pumps struggle with—such as oils, syrups, adhesives, grease, and pastes. These pumps feature robust designs to manage resistance and ensure smooth flow.

Types of High Viscosity Drum Pumps

1. Gear Pumps

• Best for: Oils, fuels, polymers, and medium-to-high viscosity fluids (up to 100,000 cP).

• How it works: Two meshing gears trap and push fluid.

• Pros: Consistent flow, self-priming, handles heat well.

• Example: Viking Gear Pump (SS316) for lubricants & adhesives.

2. Piston Pumps

• Best for: Extremely thick pastes, sealants, and adhesives (500,000+ cP).

• How it works: Reciprocating piston forces material through a valve.

• Pros: High pressure, precise dispensing.

• Example: Graco Husky Piston Pump for silicone & epoxy.

3. Progressive Cavity Pumps

• Best for: Shear-sensitive fluids like food slurries, cosmetics, and viscous chemicals (1,000,000+ cP).

• How it works: Rotor-stator mechanism gently moves fluid.

• Pros: Low pulsation, gentle on product.

• Example: Seepex Progressive Cavity Pump for chocolate & soap.

4. Drum-Mounted Diaphragm Pumps

• Best for: Abrasive or viscous fluids like paints, inks, and sludge (50,000+ cP).

• How it works: Flexible diaphragm displaces fluid.

• Pros: No seals = less leakage, handles solids.

• Example: Yamada Diaphragm Pump for paints & coatings.

Key Features for High Viscosity Pumps

✔ High Torque Motors – Needed to overcome thick fluid resistance.
✔ Wide Discharge Ports – Prevents clogging (e.g., 1.5" or larger).
✔ Heavy-Duty Construction – Stainless steel or hardened alloys.
✔ Heating Options – Jacketed pumps for temperature-sensitive fluids (e.g., molasses).
✔ Self-Priming Ability – Critical for thick fluids that don’t flow easily.

Common Applications

• Food & Beverage: Honey, molasses, peanut butter.

• Chemicals: Grease, adhesives, resins, asphalt.

• Paints & Coatings: Latex, varnish, ink.

• Lubricants: Gear oils, heavy greases.

• Pharmaceuticals: Gels, ointments, syrups.

Top High Viscosity Drum Pump Brands

How to Choose the Right High Viscosity Pump?

1. Check Viscosity (measure in centipoise, cP).

2. Determine Flow Rate Needed (liters/min or GPM).

3. Material Compatibility (SS316 for chemicals, PTFE for solvents).

4. Power Source (electric, pneumatic, hydraulic).

5. Discharge Size (larger ports = better for thick fluids).